Australia’s Filmmaker Grounds up a 6‑Year Slam in Cambodia
What Happened?
In a courtroom that could’ve been straight out of a thriller, James Ricketson, a 69‑year‑old Aussie director, was handed a six‑year sentence for “espionage” after operating a drone over the former Cambodia National Rescue Party rally. The crime? Flying a drone that apparently fed “harmful intelligence” back to an unknown party.
The Court’s Reactions
- Judge Seng Leang announced the verdict: “He’s guilty of espionage and information gathering that hurt the nation from 2010‑2017.”
- Ricketson, still in a pink prison uniform with a copy of Alex Berenson’s thriller The Faithful Spy, stared straight at the judge and asked, “Which country was I spying for?”
- The judge, cool as ever, handed down the sentence and touted the seriousness of the offense.
Family Fallout
The Ricketson clan has been left in “absolute horror.” Jesse, James’s son, told the media, “I can’t fathom what the future holds now. And I’m terrified.” Meanwhile, nephew Bim called for stronger support from the Australian government.
Australian Response
Prime Minister Scott Morrison promised consular help and said the government had spoken to Cambodian authorities. “Keep it calm, direct, and citizen‑focused,” he noted in Jakarta.
Behind the Scenes
For more than two decades, Ricketson’s films highlighted Cambodia’s culture and people—so why shot a drone at a political rally? The exact sponsor remains murky, but the case underscores a broader crackdown on free speech under Hun Sen’s 33‑year rule.
Human Rights Take‑Away
Human Rights Watch’s Phil Robertson blasted the trial: “Excessive charges, little evidence, and judges that seem to obey political orders rather than uphold justice.” They warned that the system is riddled with flaws.
Looking Ahead
Whether James will stay healthy in Prey Sar or qualify for asylum, only time will tell. For now, the world watches a man who used to film moving stories now locked behind a cell, looking for a chance to rewrite his own fate.
